Modular sublimation printing apparatus

摘要

A safe, integrated dye sublimation printer apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to print one or more images. In some embodiments, the apparatus may be incorporated into a fully-enclosed vending machine, equipped with one or more product storage containers, to provide on-demand personalized sublimated products and accessories for a consumer.

主权项

1. A vending apparatus for providing a user with a customized sublimated product, comprising:
a dye sublimation printer configured to receive a digital image file representing an image from the user and further configured to print the received image; a substrate configured to receive the customized sublimated product; one or more product storage containers configured to store a plurality of products; a robotic transport mechanism configured to retrieve a selected product from a storage container, and transport the product within the vending apparatus; a cooling system configured to cool the sublimated product to at least about an ambient temperature; a delivery opening configured to provide the cooled product to the user; a housing substantially enclosing the dye sublimation printer, substrate, one or more product storage containers, robotic transport mechanism, and cooling system in a manner that prevents a user from contacting the enclosed components; and a user interface device configured to permit the user to determine one or more images for printing, select one of the plurality of products on which to sublimate the one or more images, and facilitate payment by the user for the sublimated product.